Remembrance

The Mayor of Morley, Councillor Robert Finnigan attended three Remembrance events during last week.

On Wednesday, 1st November the Mayor attended Leeds/Bradford Airport to lay a wreath commemorating the RAF personnel who served during the Second World War.  The airport served as the base of the RAF’s Yorkshire 609 Squadron until their move to Leeming in North Yorkshire in the 1950’s.

Councillor Finnigan said “It was a privilege to join former members of the RAF to lay a wreath in remembrance of RAF personnel who lost their lives giving service to the country during a period of conflict and also on peacetime duties.  The service was very moving helps us to remember that personnel from all three services, the RAF, Navy and Army gave their lives to protect our freedom.”

The Mayor attended the unveiling of a statue on Friday, 3rd November to Morley ex-solider Simon Brown, who was injured by sniper fire while rescuing his army colleagues who were under attack in Iraq.  The life-size statue was unveiled following a ceremony at Woodkirk Academy, where Simon was a pupil and followed readings by Woodkirk Academy students.

Councillor Finnigan said “There is no better example of local heroism than Simon Brown.  He has battled through significant disabilities to support the charitable especially those with disabilities, following their service to the country.  It was clear there is a close bond between Simon and many young people across the Morley area.”

Finally, the Mayor joined Poppy Sellers in Morrisons Morley to support the sale of poppies to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.

Councillor Finnigan said “It was clear Morley Folk are very generous and were flocking to the stand to show their support for the Remembrance events.  My personal thanks go to the British Legion and their volunteers, who are putting in many hours to support them.  The British Legion do an excellent job supporting service personnel and it was a pleasure and a privilege to support their Poppy campaign.”